Frequently Asked Questions
It’s natural to be nervous because therapy is new, and it can feel vulnerable expressing your innermost thoughts to someone else. You might also wonder if therapy will work and bring you relief.
Together, those fears can be overwhelming. It takes courage to get the help you need. And you should know therapy is a space where you can be yourself and bring all of those feelings (and more) into each session.
I’m committed to finding a way to care for your nervousness and ensure sessions are as comfortable as possible.
It’s hard to determine that in advance, but take some time to read through my website.
If you sense we may work well together, contact me for a free consultation.
During that initial call, you can ask me about how I helped other people like you, how I work as a therapist, and/or any other questions that are important for you. We’ll also discuss what’s on your mind and decide, together, how I may help.
Think of the first few sessions as “testing the waters.” You’ll be able to determine how you feel working with me and if you decide we’re not a good fit, that’s fine.
My approach is not for everyone. What’s most important is that you find someone you feel is the right fit for you.
No, you do not have to be a Christian. I accept people from all walks of life and religious/spiritual backgrounds, including those who identify as atheist.
I will never impose my beliefs upon you and keep my office a neutral, safe space for all.
I will never push you to talk about things you’re not ready to share.
It’s my job to give you space to slowly start to work through the tough stuff, but it will be gradual and at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Share what you feel ready to share, even if that’s you’re nervous about opening up to me!
We’ll discuss whatever is present for you, whatever is on your mind. We’re partnering together to bring you more peace.
Many of my clients expressed the same fear that people would think they are too sensitive for opening up, but I don’t think that at all. I think you are courageous and human.
Furthermore, through my own life journey and professional work, I know every human has a range of experiences and there is no such thing as “normal.” You’re not being dramatic or “too much,” because you’re struggling emotionally.
Nothing you can say will cause me to judge you. Nobody’s perfect; we all have our struggles and sometimes life can be emotionally draining, which is fine to express.
Whatever you’re going through, I provide a safe space where you can feel heard and supported without judgment
Unless there is an imminent danger to yourself or someone else, everything you share with me is completely confidential. Your privacy and trust are of utmost importance so rest assured that you can share anything without fear that information will get out. If you have specific questions about how confidentiality works, ask me and I’m happy to answer them.
On average, new clients start seeing small amounts of growth after the first 3-5 sessions. By that point, they have learned new ways to manage challenging situations in their lives, but the total duration of therapy varies from client to client. Some of my clients find 6-12 weeks is enough to reach their goals. Others feel more supported by longer-term therapy. We will partner together to find the length of time that works for you.
Think of the first session as a free-flowing conversation where we start getting to know each other. I’ll invite you to share more about yourself and we can also talk about what’s worked or not worked for your mental health in the past. Some questions I like to ask during a first session include the following:
- What brought you to therapy?
- Have you seen a therapist before? How did that go?
- What are your goals for therapy now?
You can ask me questions as well. You might be curious as to why I’m a therapist or how I’ve helped other clients like you. The most important part of a first session is to notice how you feel during and after our time together. If you feel calm, heard, and cared for, we can discuss meeting again.
Office Hours
- Mondays 1pm-8pm
- Tuesdays 1pm-8pm
- Wednesdays 10am-5pm
- Thursdays 10am-5pm
- 2nd Saturdays 10am-4pm
*Appointment Only*
Call me for your free phone consultation at 919-263-5544.
